Haldol
Generic Name: haloperidol
Brand Names: Haldol What is Haldol (haloperidol)?Haloperidol is an antipsychotic medication. It works by changing the actions of chemicals in your brain. Haloperidol is used to treat schizophrenia. It is also used to control motor and speech tics in people with Tourette's syndrome. Haloperidol may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide. What is the most important information I should know about Haldol (haloperidol)?Haloperidol is not for use in psychotic conditions related to dementia. Haloperidol may cause heart failure, sudden death, or pneumonia in older adults with dementia-related conditions. Haloperidol can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. Avoid getting up too fast from a sitting or lying position, or you may feel dizzy. Get up slowly and steady yourself to prevent a fall. Avoid drinking alcohol. It can increase drowsiness or dizziness caused by haloperidol. What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Haldol (haloperidol)?Haloperidol is not for use in psychotic conditions related to dementia. Haloperidol may cause heart failure, sudden death, or pneumonia in older adults with dementia-related conditions. You should not use this medication if you are allergic to haloperidol, or have certain conditions. Be sure your doctor knows if you have Parkinson's disease. Before taking haloperidol, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have: - liver disease;
- kidney disease;
heart disease, angina (chest pain); a thyroid disorder; epilepsy or other seizure disorder; a personal or family history of "Long QT syndrome"; an electrolyte imbalance such as low potassium or magnesium levels in your blood.
If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take haloperidol. It is not known whether haloperidol is harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Haloperidol can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
|
